KAPIT: The Sarawak Government remains firmly committed to enhancing healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, particularly to ensure that remote communities such as those in Kapit have equitable access to quality and comprehensive medical services.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Law and Native Customs), Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat, said the state government continuously prioritises improvements to healthcare facilities.
These include building and upgrading clinics, deploying medical personnel, and conducting outreach programmes to reach rural populations.
He stressed that geographical barriers, logistical challenges, and the lack of basic amenities should not prevent people in rural areas from receiving proper medical care.
“Therefore, strengthening infrastructure and boosting healthcare manpower in interior regions will remain a focus,” he said during a community engagement session held in conjunction with the official visit of the Sarawak State Health Director on Thursday.
He also highlighted a recent working visit by Deputy Health Minister Dato Lukanisman Awang Sauni and Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Health (Finance) Dato Zahrul Hakim Abdullah.
During the visit, several critical issues were raised, including the urgent need to increase healthcare staff, expand medical expertise and support at local facilities, and carry out essential upgrades at Kapit Hospital, which is in pressing need of repair.
“We hope the visit not only raises awareness but also prompts follow-up action from the Federal Government to support the aspirations of healthcare development in Kapit,” he stressed.
The Bukit Goram Assemblyman also underscored that the rural health agenda cannot afford to be delayed.
“Improving healthcare is not a luxury—it is a basic necessity. This need must be met regardless of where our people live, including in Kapit,” he said firmly.
Also present at the event were Sarawak State Health Director, Dr. Veronica Lugah, Deputy State Health Director (Public Health), Dr. Muhamad Nazarudin Bahari, Deputy State Health Director (Dental), Dr. Misah Mhd Ramli, Kapit Division Resident, Elvis Didit, Kapit Divisional Health Officer, Dr. Micheal Peletini Ugak and Kapit Hospital Director, Dr. Francis Lee Ngie Ping. -UKASnews
